On March 14, 2015 a new cruise ship hit the high seas and it is amazing. P&O Cruises launched the MV Britannia into service. At 308 ft with a huge Union flag on her bow, it is the flagship of the cruise line and her first captain is Paul Brown.
The name Britannia has historical significance and two previous ships have carried the name: the first Britannia was launched in 1835 for the General Steam Navigation Company and the second in 1887 to mark the golden jubilee of Queen Victoria. The newest Britannia was built in the Fincantieri ship yard in Italy and officially named by Queen Elizabeth and launched with the obligatory smash of the bottle of champagne on her bow.
The facilities on board are extensive and premium. There are 13 bars, 13 restaurants, and TV Chef James Martin is developing a cooking club on board. There is French patisserie as well as traditional high tea service. There is also an almost 1,000 seat theater for the visitors to this vessel where a variety of shows will be displayed There are 1,837 cabins, 27 of which are single cabins and 64 deluxe suites. All outside staterooms have balconies which is a first for a ship of this size. There is a full service spa, four pools and one dedicated pool for teens. No matter how you look at it, this new cruise ship is extremely premium and luxurious.
Britannia’s maiden voyage will begin on March 14 and end on March 28, 2015. It will travel from Spain to Italy and then to France. The summer voyage season will take the ship through the Mediterranean, Norwegian fjords, the Baltic and Canary Islands. The winter sailing schedule will offer 14 night Caribbean trips.
Photo from Mike O’Dwyer/Carnival/PA Wire
